About this tour
When Mia from our BugBitten team caught the ferry from Krabi Klong Jilad Pier to Phi Phi Tonsai, it was a straightforward 2-hour crossing on a large, well-maintained vessel. The Royal Jet Cruiser handles up to 500 passengers and runs regularly through open water to reach the islands. It's the standard way most backpackers and families get between the mainland and Phi Phi, so you'll share the deck with the usual mix of tour groups, independent travellers, and locals. The boat's solid and reliable—no frills, but it gets you there without drama.
Highlights
- Large, stable ferry handles rough seas with ease
- Onboard restroom available during 2-hour journey
- Wheelchair accessible—ramps and facilities work
- Prams and strollers catered for; infants sit on laps
- No surprise waits or hidden delays Mia encountered
- Affordable way to island-hop with minimal fuss
- Regular departures throughout peak and off-season
What to expect
You'll board at Krabi Klong Jilad Pier and spend two hours on the open water heading toward Phi Phi Tonsai. The ferry is no speed boat—it's a workhorse vessel, and the crossing can feel a bit long if the sea's choppy, though Mia found the ride stable. Most passengers spend the time on deck or sheltering indoors; there's little in the way of entertainment or food service, so bring a book or accept the monotony. The boat arrives at Tonsai Pier, which is busy and chaotic—typical Phi Phi energy. The main surprise isn't the ferry itself but the pier entry fee (20 THB, not included), which catches some people off guard at the gate.
The vessel is genuinely accessible: ramps work, toilets are usable, and staff don't fuss. Families with young kids do fine—prams and strollers are welcome, and it's not a rough ride if you're braced for open water. Pack water and snacks; the onboard café is basic.
What travellers say
- Reliable daily service with multiple crossings
- Wheelchair and pram accessible with working facilities
- Stable, large vessel handles open-water conditions well
- Straightforward booking; no hidden logistics
- Low cost for a long inter-island transfer
- Long 2-hour crossing can feel sluggish on calm days
- Tonsai Pier arrival is hectic and touristy
- Motion sickness a real risk if sea's rough
- Entry fee not mentioned upfront in ticket price
Themes summarised by our team from public information about this tour. Verify specifics on the operator's page before booking.
Good to know
This is the main ferry link, so it runs multiple times daily and won't strand you. It's wheelchair accessible with functioning facilities—proper ramps, not improvised ones. Families with prams and toddlers are well catered for, and staff are used to managing mixed groups. The price is low for what is a 2-hour journey across open sea.
The ferry is big and busy, so it won't feel intimate or boutique. If you're prone to motion sickness, bring tablets; the open sea can chop. The pier at Tonsai is madness—crowded, loud, and full of touts waiting to grab you. The 20 THB entry fee isn't listed upfront. Timing can shift with weather; don't book onward activities too tight. Allow an extra 30 minutes for queuing and disembarkation.
Bring water, sunscreen, and a light layer—the sun's intense but sea spray keeps things cool. Toilet onboard, but queues build mid-journey. Public transport options exist nearby the pier if you want alternatives. Suitable for all fitness levels, including elderly and mobility-limited travellers.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.